a small interest

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a small interest" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a minor or limited level of curiosity or concern about a particular subject or topic. Example: "She has a small interest in photography, but she prefers painting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

Even a small interest rate rise will send a million more into deep trouble.

The Guardian - Opinion

"I've always had a small interest in politics so I thought I'd go along.

Independent

Track and field is a small interest sport in the US.

Independent

Nevertheless, Chemical Engineering community demonstrates a small interest for innovation compared to other engineering fields.

Chemical Engineering and Processing: Process Intensification

Even a small interest rate rise could have a devastating effect on some people with mortgages, according to Campbell Robb, chief executive of Shelter.

The Guardian - Money

Sternberg said that he had looked into the possibility of buying a small interest in the Mets, but that it did not work out.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

A small interest-rate increase would not do much to persuade foreign investors to keep their money in South Africa.

The Economist

Arranging a small interest-free overdraft can also be a very good idea, and learning to budget is vital".

Independent

"A small interest-rate change has changed [buyers'] perspective," said Susan Mertz, an agent with Keller Williams Capital Properties in Virginia.

The Washington Post

Monetary policy is, in effect, already set in Frankfurt, with the Danes paying a small interest-rate premium merely to keep their own notes and coins.

The Economist

Even if the Fed funds rate falls all the way to zero, that will be a smaller interest rate reduction than the last time around.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a small interest", ensure the context clearly indicates what the subject of the interest is. For example, "She has a small interest in environmental issues."

Common error

Avoid using "a small interest" when you actually mean disinterest or no interest at all. "A small interest" implies some level of curiosity or engagement, however minimal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small interest" functions as a noun phrase, where "small" modifies the noun "interest". It generally serves to describe the extent or degree of someone's curiosity, concern, or involvement in something. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is deemed correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a small interest" is a common and grammatically correct way to express a limited level of curiosity, concern, or involvement. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is perfectly acceptable for use in written English. It is most frequently found in news and media, with smaller occurrences in scientific and wiki-based content. While versatile, it is important to ensure the context clarifies the subject of interest and that the phrase accurately reflects the degree of engagement you intend to convey. Consider alternatives like "a slight interest" or "a minor interest" to fine-tune the nuance of your expression. Remember that using precise language enhances clarity and prevents misinterpretations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a slight interest

Suggests a barely noticeable or minimal level of interest.

a minor interest

Indicates the interest is not significant or of great importance.

a modest interest

Indicates the interest is moderate and not excessive.

a limited interest

Highlights the constrained or restricted nature of the interest.

a casual interest

Suggests a relaxed and informal level of engagement.

a passing interest

Implies a brief and superficial level of interest, suggesting it might not last long.

a fleeting interest

Implies the interest is temporary and quickly disappears.

a superficial interest

Highlights the lack of depth or seriousness in the interest.

a negligible interest

Emphasizes the insignificance or unimportance of the interest.

a token interest

Highlights that the interest is shown only as a symbol, without real commitment.

FAQs

How can I use "a small interest" in a sentence?

You can use "a small interest" to indicate a limited curiosity or concern. For example, "He showed "a small interest" in the project but didn't actively participate."

What's the difference between "a small interest" and "a passing interest"?

"A small interest" suggests some level of sustained curiosity, while "a passing interest" implies a brief and temporary engagement.

What are some alternatives to saying "a small interest"?

Alternatives include "a slight interest", "a minor interest", or "a limited interest", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a small interest" in formal writing?

Yes, "a small interest" is appropriate for formal writing. However, consider whether a more precise term like "a limited concern" or "a modest involvement" might be more suitable.